4.2
(24)
104
riders
17
rides
Mountain biking around Sutton Under Brailes offers routes through the rolling hills and valleys characteristic of the northern Cotswolds. The landscape features a mix of open farmland, ancient woodlands, and quiet country lanes, providing varied terrain for mountain bikers. Riders can expect ascents to prominent local hills and descents through scenic countryside. The area's geology contributes to a network of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.0
(2)
7
riders
49.6km
03:53
610m
610m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.0
(3)
5
riders
38.1km
02:56
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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23.8km
01:52
330m
330m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
26.6km
02:17
430m
430m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
16.4km
01:20
190m
190m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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At the heart of many beautiful roads and climbs in the North Cotswolds
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"The name "Brailes" is thought to originate either from the Old Welsh breg-lis - "hill court" - or the Old English byrgels - "burial place". Castle Hill Motte in the middle of the village is a natural knoll that was made higher in the Norman era to form the motte of a motte-and-bailey castle. Its construction may have been ordered by Roger de Beaumont, who was Earl of Warwick from 1123–53. Earthworks of both the motte and the bailey survive, and the site is a Scheduled Monument. Brailes was the home of William de Brailes, a 13th-century medieval painter of illuminated manuscripts. Of the many artists who painted such manuscripts, William is one of only two whose name has been recorded. It was also the birthplace of Thomas de Brayles (died c.1340), a senior judge and Crown official of the early fourteenth century, whose highest office was Chancellor of the Irish Exchequer. On the other side of Stocks Hill is Brailes House, the former home to the Sheldon family. The Sheldons have held the manor of Brailes since 1547." Source: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brailes
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Surface firm in spring, though used by horses
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The George Inn at Brailes is a traditional 16th century Cotswold pub that serves up a delicious range of traditional and continental food and local Hooky beers. The pub has a number of cosy rooms as well as a large beer garden and pool table.
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This is the location of the Battle of Edgehill, a pitched battle of the First English Civil War occurring on Sunday 23rd October 1642. A detailed information board stands here describing how the event unfolded, offering a fascinating window into the area's past.
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I’m going to second the gravel comment, if it has rained recently it can get a bit more gravel than road.
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Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Long Compton Woods in The Cotswolds AONB. The woods are made up of Broadleaved and conifer trees with a lovely understory of wildflowers and seasonal bluebells.
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There are 17 mountain bike trails around Sutton Under Brailes, offering a variety of routes through the northern Cotswolds. These trails range from easy rides through villages to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
Yes, Sutton Under Brailes offers several trails suitable for beginners. There are 8 easy-rated routes, perfect for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride. An example is the 16th Century Thatched Barn – Ilmington Village loop from Tredington CP, which is 22.9 km long.
Mountain bike trails in Sutton Under Brailes feature a diverse landscape typical of the northern Cotswolds. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, scenic valleys, open farmland, ancient woodlands, and quiet country lanes. Routes often include ascents to prominent local hills and descents through picturesque countryside.
While there are no routes explicitly rated as 'difficult', the area offers 9 moderate-rated trails that provide a good challenge for experienced riders. These routes often include significant climbs and longer distances, such as the Brailes Hill loop, which covers nearly 50 km with over 600 meters of elevation gain.
The mountain bike trails in Sutton Under Brailes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views from prominent hills, and the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands and country lanes.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Sutton Under Brailes are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the popular Brailes Hill loop and the Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Ditchedge Lane Descent loop from Long Compton.
Several routes offer excellent viewpoints. The Gallows Hill Viewpoint – Ditchedge Lane Descent loop from Long Compton is specifically named for its notable viewpoint. Additionally, the Brailes Hill loop provides panoramic views from Brailes Hill itself.
The area around Sutton Under Brailes is rich in history. You can explore sites like The Rollright Stones Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument, or the historic Chastleton House. The Battle of Edgehill Site is also nearby, offering a glimpse into English Civil War history.
Yes, the region features several interesting natural and ancient monuments. Besides the stone circles, you can visit The King Stone and The Whispering Knights, which are part of the Rollright Stones complex, offering unique geological and historical interest.
The rolling hills and varied terrain of Sutton Under Brailes are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter rides can be invigorating, though some trails might be muddier, especially after rain.
Many routes in the area pass through or near charming Cotswold villages. For example, the 16th Century Thatched Barn – Ilmington Village loop from Tredington CP goes through Ilmington Village, which often has local pubs or cafes where you can stop for refreshments.
The longest mountain bike route listed is the Brailes Hill loop, which spans approximately 49.6 kilometers (30.8 miles). This moderate route typically takes around 3 hours and 52 minutes to complete, offering significant climbs and panoramic views.


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